Tuning into Kids - Taking expressions of interest now for term 3

We are pleased to announce that the Tuning into Kids parenting program will be offered this again this year! Six 90minute group sessions, over the course of 6 weeks, we are currently taking expressions of interest for a group commencing in term 3. Medicare rebates may be applicable. Please contact our reception for further information (02) 6156 4780.

The Tuning Into Kids Program equips parents with Emotion Coaching Skills that can assist children (ages 4-11years) to develop their emotional intelligence (EQ), as well as helping them become more self-regulated and self-confident. Research shows that young people with higher levels of emotional intelligence:

Have greater awareness & self-control in social situations,

Have more satisfying friendship’s & are better able to manage conflict with peers,

Are more likely to self-regulate when upset or angry,

Are more resilient & cope better when faced with challenges, and

Have lower levels of stress & psychological difficulties.

Emotional Intelligence is believed to be a better predictor of outcomes in life than IQ!

Participants often find that many of their children’s behavioural problems have improved in response to Emotion Coaching parenting, as have their relationships with their children.

About the Tuning In To Kids Program

The Tuning in to Kids Parenting program was developed by Dr Sophie Havinghurt and Ann Harley from The University of Melbourne in 2007. With Emotion Coaching as the central theme of the program the content has drawn from the work of Dr John Gottman and his Colleagues. Tuning in to kids focuses on helping children (aged 4-11years) develop their emotional intelligence (EQ) through emotionally responsive parenting. Children develop their capacity to think about emotions and to regulate their responses through others’ guidance. Parents may act as “therapists” by helping their children understand and manage their emotions. A lot of the children’s behavioural problems can be better managed as their EQ develops. The Tuning in to Kids Program equips parents with Emotion Coaching skills that assist children develop into more self-regulated, and self-confident persons.

Research and Evaluation of Tuning in to Kids

A randomised controlled study of the Tuning in to Kids program was carried out with the parent of pre-schoolers attending Kindergarten. 216 Families participated in the study, with over half of the sample reporting their child had behaviour or anxiety problems in the clinical range. Parents who received the TIK program improved in their ability to respond to children’s emotions in supportive and teaching ways. They were also much less likely to be dismissive or critical when their children were emotional. Furthermore, children of parents participating in the program experienced significant reductions in behaviour problems.

These outcomes were found on parent report, teach report, observed parent and direct assessment of the child. Ninety-two percent completed the program, suggesting a high-level of engagement.

A number of other evaluations of the program have been completed since, with resulting supporting its use for parents of pre and primary school aged children with anxiety or behavioural problems.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional Intelligence is about using your emotions to guide you through the world. It is about being able to use your knowledge of emotions to make decisions, to calm yourself down, to manage anger and conflict, to help you in your relationships with people,to understand what is happening in social situations, and to assist you in any aspects of like that involves you and another person.

Why is Emotional Intelligence Important?

Research shows that young people with higher levels of emotional intelligence:

Have greater awareness and self-control in social situations,

Have more satisfying friendships and are more able to manage conflict with peers,